The Pirate Princess

Teenage Julie embarks on a journey to find her mysterious father and subsequently becomes involved in a series of precarious situations that include archetypal pirate beats such as kidnappings and sword battles in this swashbuckling graphic novel. Yearning for adventure—and answers to her family’s shadowy past—the estranged daughter of the pirate king joins the Great Dolphin’s crew, along the way befriending an eclectic, intersectionally diverse crew of adventurers like herself, including queer adults Maxime and Stephanie, who become Julie’s adoptive guardians. Italian writer Frigerio suffuses Julie’s quest with nonstop action, making for a page-turning narrative; illustrations by Roman comics artist Pigliamosche adopt a nostalgic and affable aesthetic reminiscent of celebrated pirate films, using broad swathes of saturated color to connote movement and ambiance. Though abrupt transitions between scenes often omit crucial details, potentially leaving readers feeling disoriented, they nevertheless set a fast pace against which high-adrenaline action unfolds. The creators’ intriguing premise and visually captivating art combine for a rousing romp ideal for those yearning for epic pirate adventures. Ages 14–up. (Oct.)